LeagueNews.co | Nick Loken
From the archives: Bob Jones
Bob Jones, the legendary hooker for the Dolphins, was like a scavenging seagull, always diving on loose balls and fighting for possession.
He embodied the hard-nosed spirit of Rugby League, battling it out in the forward clashes with fierce determination.
But his contributions to the club didn't end on the field; he seamlessly transitioned into the boardroom and has remained an integral part of the Dolphins ever since.
Jones' journey to the Dolphins was serendipitous, with a twist of fate guiding him towards the club.
While on his way to sign with a Gold Coast team, his father convinced him to consider Redcliffe.
Little did he know that this small seaside town housed a Rugby League team.
Curiosity piqued, Jones approached the committee, and that marked the beginning of his journey with the Dolphins.
One particular match stands out vividly in Jones' memory: the game against Wests.
Barry Muir, no stranger to pump-up speeches, instilled in the team the fire to prove their worth to their opponents.
The game ended with Jones receiving a warranted send-off, a testament to the fierce battles fought on the field.
Despite the late night due to the judiciary, Jones and his teammates emerged from the ordeal knowing they had given their all.
The opportunity of a lifetime presented itself when the Roosters came calling.
With Elwyn Walters departing, Jones's skills were in high demand.
The chance to represent Sydney and play alongside legendary players such as Arthur Beetson, Bob Fulton, and John Coote was too enticing to resist.
Furthermore, playing in the 1977 Willis Cup and meeting the Queen added a touch of regal surrealism to Jones's already illustrious career.
However, the magnetic pull of Redcliffe was too strong for Jones to resist.
He returned to his beloved Dolphins in the middle of 1978.
Loyalty to his team was paramount, and Jones could never fathom playing against Redcliffe.
It turned out to be the best decision of his career, as he built a lasting legacy within the club he held dear.
Bob Jones, the unyielding and tireless hooker of the Dolphins, will forever be remembered for his tenacity and unwavering dedication to the game.
His journey from the field to the boardroom is a testament to his enduring love for Rugby League and the Redcliffe Dolphins.